2007 - United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism

Friday Night Live, all the programs were well attended. Where it was needed we offered simultaneously to the adult
programs a children program, as well as baby-sitting.
The 55th anniversary programs were initially presented during the High Holidays, with our colorful brochure.
We also had a 55th Anniversary column every month in our TBS Bulletin. Publicity was sent to all the local and
regional Jewish and secular publications, on a regular basis. Each program had its own invitation or flyer that were
advertised in our Shabbat brochure as well as from the pulpit. We also placed some of our programs on our Internet site.
The programs had different fundraising components:
1. We minted TBS 55th Anniversary Commemorative Coins that were sold for their Commemorative value as
well as a raffle ticket. The prize -- two tickets to Israel on Rabbi Alan Lucas’ next congregational trip to Israel.
With a portion of the proceeds donated to the Masorti Movement in Israel.
2. We printed a Purim Megilla in honor of our president and his wife. The back of the Megilla gave well-wishers
and vendors the opportunity to advertise.
3. We run additional fund raising events: Chanukah Holiday Fair and “Treasures” From Your Attic.
4. Many lectures and celebratory events were sponsored by the generosity of our congregants.
GOLD
TEMPLE OF AARON
Over 900
St. Paul, MN
Submitted by Bruce Kuritzky 651-698-4114
After several years of congregational turmoil, the Temple of Aaron, St. Paul, Minnesota, was looking for a way to
reinvigorate its membership. With the arrival of a new senior rabbi, the timing was perfect to create a year-long
celebration of the congregation’s 50th anniversary in its current location. The membership responded with enthusiasm
beyond anyone’s expectations to the “Jubilee: Remember the Past, Live the Present, Trust the Future.”
Events were planned to include all members of the congregation, past and present, and to make sure that they
were open to the community — part of our strategy for growth in the future. The range of programs was vast: arts,
education, reunions, publications, parties, special worship services, and more. None of the Jubilee events interfered with
regular congregational activities, making the synagogue a hub of constant excitement.
Most importantly, the participation of members at every level was high. Volunteers planned, created, led,
shared, and participated in every activity; staff involvement was strictly in a support capacity. Members found new
connections and revived old ones through innovative programming. No member, regardless of where they live in the
Twin Cities area or age or their physical condition, was prevented or excluded from participating in at least some of the
Jubilee activities. The unanimous opinion of the Jubilee leadership is that this program, still in progress, is an
unqualified success.
SILVER
THE FOREST HILLS JEWISH CENTER
500-900 Forest Hills, NY
Submitted by Dorrie Berkowitz 718-263-7000
An anchor for its congregational family, and an anchor for the community, the Forest Hills Jewish Center turned 75 this
year. As befits such an institution, a grand celebration was planned, and the plans were to include both the religious and
social aspects of the Center.
Following Kabbalat Shabbat services in the main sanctuary, a celebratory, family-oriented dinner was held in
the Heller Family Ballroom. To enhance the warmth of the evening, a cappella entertainment was provided by the
voices of N’ranena (two of whom are congregants) and by the special 75 th Anniversary Chorus. Two of the highlights
by the chorus were an Ashreinu composed by our own Rabbi Gerald Skolnik, and a Shehecheyanu, composed by
congregant Heidi Rolnick.
Shabbat services included a presentation of a new Torah mantle to commemorate the anniversary. In addition,
many of the Center’s past presidents were on hand to receive honors and participate in the service.